A Word on Oil Change and Auto Repair and Why It Is A Must

There are many experts that specialize in auto repair that would say that oil changes are one of the best things that can be done to prolong the life of a car.

Many an auto repair expert has opined that changing the oil on a regular basis is one of the best things a car owner can do to extend the life of their engine. Thankfully, it's also one of the easiest and least expensive. Most shops who do any kind of car work will do oil changes, although there are certainly differences in the price you'll pay and the quality of service you'll receive. It's always a good idea to opt for the "full service" option, which includes topping off additional fluids, making other adjustments and changes, and generally inspecting the car for problems. As long as you don't wind up in an "up-sell" shop (a shop always looking for a way to get more money out of you), you should be asking for this service.

Intervals
Anyone even slightly familiar with cars knows that the common auto repair wisdom says to change the oil every 3,000 miles or every 3 months. This is one of the rules of thumb that get passed down and around with very little critical consideration. Nonetheless, it isn't the worst advice to follow. On the other hand, if you have a relatively new vehicle, you can probably push the limits to roughly twice that. Consult you owner's manual to check the manufacturer's recommendations. You won't want to push it beyond six months or 6,000 miles, however, as this could be asking for trouble. If you're having problems with your car or have high mileage, follow the original recommended standard.

Lights
Some newer cars don't bother with giving the owner a recommended interval. Instead, they simply put a light on the dash that glows when the car is ready for an oil change. The feeling about the oil light is mixed among auto repair experts. On the one hand, it certainly removes the need for stickers and other reminders. On the other, lights can fail. And when they do, the car owner could wind up driving the vehicle far beyond the appropriate limits. If you have one of these lights, keep your wits about you and make sure you haven't gone beyond the usual recommended limits.

Reasoning
If you're wondering why changing the oil is so important, you aren't alone. Many auto repair experts come into contact with consumers who don't really "get" why oil changes are necessary. The reasons, however, are very simple. Over time, oil will start to pick up gunk and dirt, losing viscosity. The oil is needed to lubricate the moving parts of the engine. When it isn't changed, it can eventually turn to sludge, which can cause a ton of problems, including engine failure.

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